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Kentucky · Direct-to-Consumer Compliance

Eggs

Direct farm sales under 60 dozen a week are license-exempt but still inspected

Farm Exempt
60 dozWeekly direct-sale exemption cap
45 FRequired storage and transit temperature
$20+Annual license above the cap
1/4 inHeight of the word ungraded on cartons

What's Covered / Needs a Different Path

What's Covered

  • Producers selling only directly to consumers and staying at or under 60 dozen a week
  • Ungraded eggs in cartons marked ungraded, or eggs graded to USDA standards
  • Eggs kept at 45 F or colder

Needs a Different Path

  • Sales above 60 dozen a week, or to stores, restaurants or wholesalers
  • Eggs that are addled, moldy, or show blood or meat defects
  • Eggs without required labels

Compliance Steps

A

Count your volume

Track weekly sales. Over 60 dozen in a calendar week means you need a KDA license.

B

Handle and label

Keep eggs at 45 F, mark cartons ungraded in letters at least a quarter inch high, or grade them to USDA standards.

C

License if needed

Apply for a retail or producer license with the KDA Egg Marketing Program. Fees run $20 to $50 by volume.

Quick Reference

ItemRuleRegulator
License exemptionDirect-to-consumer, up to 60 dozen a weekKDA Egg Marketing Program
Refrigeration45 F or less in transit, storage and displayKDA
Ungraded cartonsWord ungraded, 1/4 inch lettersKDA (302 KAR 10:015)
Fees above capRetail $20; producer/packer $20 to $50 by volumeKDA (KRS 260.600)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can inspectors visit me if I am exempt?

Yes. Exempt sellers are still subject to inspection.

Was the cap raised to 240 dozen?

A 2025 bill proposed it and stalled in committee. The statute reviewed still says 60.

Do I need a carton?

Cartons must carry required labeling; reused cartons must be covered or removed of old markings.

Printable Checklist